Kearney is gearing up for a week filled with school spirit, community pride, and Bulldog tradition as Homecoming 2025 kicks off. This year’s theme, “Homecoming State of Mind 2025,” sets the stage for a festive week of events that will unite students, families, and neighbors in celebration.

The centerpiece of the week, the annual Homecoming Parade, will take place at 2 pm, on Friday, Oct. 10, in downtown Kearney. Community members are invited to line Washington Street from Clark Street to Prospect Street to cheer on students representing sports teams, performing arts, clubs, public service organizations, and more. Floats and entries will showcase the theme in creative and colorful ways, promising a magical experience for all ages.

Organizations hoping to join the parade must submit an ENTRY FORM bit.ly/KMOhocoparade25 to Brittini Starzl by Friday, Oct. 3. All student participants must also have a signed Activity Permission Slip on file. A mandatory pre-event meeting for parade representatives is scheduled for 5:30 pm, on Wednesday, Oct. 8, in the KHS new gym.

Friday, Oct. 10, will also be a half-day for students. Kearney Middle School, Kearney Junior High, and Kearney High School will dismiss at 10:30 am, while elementary schools will dismiss at 11:35 am.

Homecoming Week will feature Spirit Days across the district, leading up to fan-favorite events. The annual KHS Powder Puff football game kicks off at 7 pm. on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at Bulldog Stadium, where the 2025 Homecoming King will be crowned.

The week concludes with Friday night lights as the Bulldogs take on Raytown South at 7 pm, on Oct. 10 at Bulldog Stadium. The 2025 Homecoming Queen will be crowned at halftime. Tickets for the game are available through the KHS Football digital box office.

From the parade to the pep rallies, Homecoming 2025 promises to be a time of celebration, tradition, and community spirit. Go Bulldogs!

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.